Nereyda Falconi, Ph.D.
Quantitative Ecologist | Spatial Ecologist | Mission-Driven Scientist
Community
Beyond the boundaries of scientific inquiry, I believe that active advocacy is vital for addressing urgent societal needs, especially during challenging times.
Neurodiversity in Science
As a scientist with ADHD I belive that creating a truly healthy, inclusive scientific culture requires acknowledging and valuing diverse minds. While traditional academic structures can pose distinct obstacles for neurodivergent researchers, attributes such as hyperfocus, out-of-the-box creativity, and rapid multi-stream thinking can be powerful assets in science (e.g., spatial ecology and quantitative modeling)
Human rights
Believing deeply in the power of community, I felt a profound need for connection and mutual support when I first moved to the United States. This led me to begin volunteering at the State College LGBTQ+ Centre, where I found not only a vibrant community and lifelong friends, but a network of individuals deeply committed to mutual care and grassroots advocacy. Through this work, I have helped champion initiatives that foster safety, inclusion, and resources for local residents. In 2025, I was deeply honored to be awarded Ally of the Year by the center. This recognition has been an incredibly meaningful milestone in my journey, further fueling my dedication to advocating for human rights and building resilient, supportive local communities.